December 12, 2005. Explosions at London Oil Depot
| SOURCE: | Air Security International |
A large explosion occurred at the Buncefield Oil Depot in Hemel Hempstead in Hertfordshire at approximately 0603 local time (UTC) on 11 December 2005. The initial explosion was followed by two smaller blasts at approximately 0626 and 0627. The blasts injured 43 people and damaged houses and other structures near the oil depot, which is located near Junction 8 of the M1 motorway, approximately 10 mi/16 km southeast of London Luton International Airport (EGGW/LTN). The cause of the explosions is not known, although police investigators stated that it appears to be accidental. As of 12 December 2005, firefighters are continuing to battle fires at the facility using foam concentrate. Authorities have evacuated approximately 2,000 people from the area of the explosion, and the M10 motorway remains closed. The M1 is open to through traffic, but officials have stated that they may have to close the road again after sunset, depending on the density of the smoke. Despite the close proximity of the fire to Luton Airport, there were no reports of major disruptions to flight operations at the facility, but some flights were delayed on 11 December at Heathrow Airport. Although both Luton and Heathrow airports receive their fuel supplies from the oil depot, official sources have stated that fuel supplies will not be affected.
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